Employing the same Google Assistant technology as its popular Pixel smartphones, Google's voice-activated speaker will read you the news, answer questions and remind you to put the kettle on.

The avant-garde bit of kit from Google follows Amazon's launch of the Echo speaker, a voice activated gadget which can play music, read emails and even order an Uber.

Home uses Google's smart "Assistant" to control things like light controls and thermostats or music streaming services to carry out scores of tasks.

The voice-controlled smart speaker will cost £129 and will be available in a range of colours including white, black, purple, blue and orange.

You will be able to buy it from the Google Store as well as Currys and PC World, Argos, Maplin and John Lewis.

Design

The design is supposedly inspired by wine glasses and candles. It has a sloped top with four coloured LED lights on it - these provide visual feedback.

There is a mute button on the back, which you can press to prevent Google from listening to "hot words".

The bottom has a speaker grille attached to it. This can be swapped for different coloured shells to suit your personal taste and mood - there will be six options available in different fabrics and metals.

Google assistance

This tool is like a more intuitive Google search. It allows users to ask questions in a more natural way so you don't have to think about how you word things to get the answer you want.

You can also ask follow up questions so it feels a bit more like a natural conversation.

The assistance will also let you share information across devices, like phones, tablets and laptops.

What's more, you'll be able to link together several Google Home speakers around your house to synchronise them.

Everyday tasks

The smart speaker will be able help you manage day-to-day tasks like setting alarms, sending you reminders, starting timers and even adding items to your shopping list.

Plus, if you have smart devices in your home, you can control your lights and switches from brands including Nest, Philips or Samsung SmartThings.

If you have a Chromecast, you can also use voice commands to play Netflix and YouTube on your TV.